Guwahati: Gateway to Northeast India
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and northeastern India, is not just a metropolis; it’s a vibrant blend of ancient history, rich culture, and modern growth. Often referred to as the “Gateway to Northeast India” and the “City of Temples,” Guwahati is a city that combines its historical significance with its contemporary importance as a major urban hub. Situated on the south bank of the mighty Brahmaputra River, the city’s strategic location has made it a focal point of commerce, tourism, and education in the region.
“Guwahati: The Vibrant Gateway to Northeast India
Historical Significance
The history of Guwahati stretches back to ancient times when it was known as Pragjyotishpura, the capital of the Kamarupa Kingdom. Later, it expanded to include Durjaya, another significant settlement on the northern side of the Brahmaputra. Ancient temples such as the Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple, and Navagraha Temple are testimonies to its religious and cultural heritage.
These temples, with their stunning architecture and enduring spiritual significance, have earned Guwahati the nickname “City of Temples.” The Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, is particularly notable as a major pilgrimage site, attracting devotees and tourists from across the globe.
History of Guwahati
The historical narrative of Guwahati is a fascinating tapestry woven through ancient myths, strategic conquests, colonial transitions, and modern evolution. From its legendary beginnings to its role as a vital urban hub, Guwahati reflects the cultural richness and strategic significance of Assam and India’s northeastern region.
Ancient History
Guwahati’s origins are deeply rooted in mythology and ancient texts. The Kalika Purana (10th–12th century) describes Kamrup as a region inhabited by the strong and fierce Kirata people, noted for their valiant nature. Mythology intertwines with history in the story of King Bhagadatta, who dug the famed Dighalipukhuri tank for his daughter Bhanumati’s wedding to Duryodhan.
The city’s spiritual heritage is exemplified by the Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill, which stands as a major seat of Tantric traditions and Vajrayana Buddhism. Temples such as the Navagraha Temple (dedicated to celestial deities) and the archaeological remains in Basistha highlight Guwahati’s enduring religious and astrological importance.
Excavations in Ambari date the city’s human settlement back to the 2nd century BCE during the Shunga-Kushana period, emphasizing its early prominence as a center of trade and strategy. During the reign of the Varman King Bhaskar Varman (7th century CE), Chinese traveler Xuanzang documented that Guwahati stretched for approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles), showcasing its significance in medieval Indian geopolitics.
Medieval History
Medieval Guwahati bore witness to the Ahom-Mughal conflicts, as empires vied for control over Assam. The Koch King Parikshit held his capital at Pragjyotishpur, fortifying it against Mughal invasions. Despite intermittent Mughal occupations in the 17th century, the region remained a bastion of local resistance, culminating in the decisive Battle of Itakhuli, which removed Mughal influence.
Under the Ahom dynasty, Guwahati flourished. It became the headquarters for the Borphukan, the Ahom governor of Lower Assam, who resided in what is now the Fancy Bazaar area. The city was fortified and interconnected through roads during this period, highlighting its strategic and administrative importance. Temples and boatyards, such as the Dighalipukhuri, built during this time, testify to the Ahom rulers’ focus on infrastructure and religious architecture.
Colonial History
In 1826, following the Treaty of Yandabo, Assam was ceded to the British. Guwahati became the administrative seat of British Assam, signifying its strategic importance. The British presence laid the groundwork for urban planning and modern governance, though in 1874, the administrative headquarters were moved to Shillong.
The colonial era saw transformative projects, such as the construction of administrative buildings and civic amenities. Guwahati was emerging as a key urban center, bridging the historical transitions from traditional rule to modern colonial governance.
Modern History
Post-independence, Guwahati rose as a significant hub for administration, infrastructure, and regional integration. The Gauhati High Court, established on 1 March 1948, marked a pivotal point in the judicial history of northeastern India. This institution started its journey under the framework of the Government of India Act, 1935, with R.F. Lodge as its inaugural Chief Justice.
One of the most iconic achievements of modern Guwahati was the construction of the Saraighat Bridge, completed in 1962. At a cost of ₹106 million, this bridge connected northeastern India with the rest of the country, symbolizing integration and progress.
In 1972, the creation of Meghalaya as a separate state resulted in the relocation of Assam’s capital to Dispur, a suburb of Guwahati, further solidifying the city’s administrative importance.
Geographical Marvel
Guwahati lies in the Kamrup Metropolitan District and is nestled between the Brahmaputra River and the Shillong Plateau foothills, giving it a unique landscape of rivers, hills, and green plains. This striking geography is complemented by its elevation ranging from 50 to 680 meters, providing stunning views and diverse ecosystems.
One of the notable geographical highlights is the Guwahati Ropeway, which offers breathtaking aerial views of the Brahmaputra and connects parts of the city, serving both as a tourist attraction and an efficient mode of transport.
Modern Growth and Infrastructure
Guwahati is among the fastest-growing cities in India. With an area of 216 square kilometers, the city is expanding rapidly, both in size and economic activity. Its Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the 12th busiest in the country, highlighting its status as a key regional transit hub.
The city is governed by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) and the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), which are responsible for urban planning and infrastructure. Key projects like road expansions, metro services, and urban modernization plans are under development to cater to the burgeoning population.
Guwahati also boasts excellent connectivity with the rest of India through its railway station and national highways, making it a central node in the region’s logistical network.
Biodiversity and Wildlife
Nature lovers will find Guwahati to be a haven of biodiversity. The region is home to rare wildlife species, including Asian elephants, Indian rhinoceros, tigers, and an array of primate species. Birds, some endangered, add to the region’s rich avian diversity.
Nearby areas such as the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Deepor Beel, a freshwater lake and bird sanctuary, are popular destinations for wildlife enthusiasts. These reserves highlight Guwahati’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty amidst urban growth.
Geography of Guwahati: A Diverse Landscape
Natural Features
Guwahati is nestled alongside the majestic Brahmaputra River, forming a stunning natural boundary to the city’s north. To the south, the Shillong Plateau foothills frame the landscape, while the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary lies to the east. Rivers like the Bharalu, flowing through the city, and natural marvels like Dipor Bil, a freshwater lake acting as a stormwater reservoir, accentuate Guwahati’s ecological richness.
The city also houses the Peacock Island, the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world, enhancing its scenic charm. Numerous hills and green belts dot the cityscape, maintaining a balance between urban development and natural serenity.
Urban Structure
Guwahati’s urban form radiates from a central core with key growth corridors:
- Southern Corridor: Areas like Ganeshguri and Dispur form this economic and residential sub-center along the Guwahati-Shillong Road (GS Road), a prominent commercial hub.
- Western Corridor: This connects historic regions like Nilachal Hill and Pandu to Guwahati University and the airport, fostering logistical and historical growth.
- Eastern Corridor: Covering Noonmati and Narengi, this corridor supports industrial and residential expansion. Key roads like NH-37 and VIP Road accelerate urban growth here.
Climate Overview
Guwahati enjoys a humid subtropical climate, experiencing hot summers and mild winters. Highlights include:
- Hottest Temperature: 40.6°C (April 2014)
- Lowest Temperature: 3.0°C (January 1964)
- Annual Rainfall: Approximately 1695 mm, with a pronounced monsoon season (June-August).
Ecological and Urban Vision
Guwahati is part of India’s Smart Cities initiative, which envisions sustainable urban development through modernization and enhanced livability. Despite its rapid urbanization, the city strives to maintain its ecological balance, evident from its ranking among India’s National Clean Air Cities.
Infrastructure of Guwahati
Guwahati is known for its high-quality living standards, which include a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty. It was ranked 17th among large and medium-sized Indian cities in a 2006 quality-of-life survey. The city boasts a pleasant climate, modern residential areas, contemporary shopping destinations, and a well-developed social infrastructure, contributing to its appeal as a residential and commercial hub.
Transportation and Connectivity
A centrally funded project is developing a four-lane East-West Corridor that will connect Guwahati to all the northeastern state capitals, aiming to uplift the entire region significantly. The city’s transportation infrastructure is undergoing enhancement with financial support from the Asian Development Bank and the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). These projects focus on urban transportation, reducing congestion, and boosting connectivity.
Urban Amenities
Modern apartments, bungalows, and landscapes harmoniously blend with the urban conveniences Guwahati provides. Shopping centers, such as the City Center Mall on GS Road, are central to its modern charm, offering a mix of local and global brands.
Challenges
Despite these advancements, the city still faces challenges in maintaining and improving its infrastructure. Investments and planning continue to address gaps in urban development and prepare Guwahati for its projected growth.
Administration and Governance
Guwahati plays a crucial administrative role as the seat of the Assam government. Dispur, located in the city, serves as the capital of Assam, accommodating various government offices, legislative buildings, and administrative establishments.
Historical Background
Before Meghalaya’s statehood in 1972, Shillong served as the joint capital of Assam and Meghalaya. When Meghalaya attained full statehood, the Assam government shifted its capital to Dispur. The first budget session of the Assam Legislative Assembly in Dispur occurred on March 16, 1973.
Key Administrative Centers
Dispur hosts:
- Assam Secretariat
- Assam Assembly House
- Regional offices of prominent financial institutions like NABARD
- North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi)
- The Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC), which plays a vital role in the state’s tea economy.
Municipal Governance
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) manages the city, dividing it into 60 municipal wards. The Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) oversees planning and development, aiming to cover 3,214 square kilometers by 2025 with a revised master plan. These administrative bodies ensure the city’s urban management and developmental goals are met efficiently.
Representation
Guwahati comprises four Assembly constituencies:
- Jalukbari
- Dispur
- Gauhati East
- Gauhati West
All fall under the Gauhati Lok Sabha constituency, which represents the city’s interests at the national level.
Cultural and Economic Hub
The city’s economy, with a GDP of ₹0.48 lakh crore, revolves around trade, education, tourism, and cultural industries. Guwahati is renowned for its cultural vibrancy, hosting several traditional festivals and modern events. Additionally, it is home to renowned educational institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, and several other universities and research centers, fostering a progressive learning environment.
Industries such as petroleum, tea, and tourism contribute significantly to its economy. Markets like Fancy Bazaar are bustling centers of trade, drawing people from across northeastern states.
Unique Identity
The name “Guwahati” originates from the Assamese words “Guwa” (areca nut) and “Hati” (rows), referring to the rows of areca nut trees that were once widespread. This etymology encapsulates the city’s connection to nature and its agrarian past.
Despite rapid modernization, Guwahati maintains a harmonious blend of tradition and progress, making it a city with a distinct identity and charm. Its local festivals, such as Bihu, reflect the spirit of Assamese culture, while its emerging skyline points to a dynamic future.
Law and Order in Guwahati
Police Administration
Guwahati serves as the headquarters of Assam Police and operates under the Police Commissionerate of Guwahati, headed by the Commissioner of Police. The Commissionerate is further divided into three districts:
- East Police District
- Central Police District
- West Police District
Each district is managed by a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), with subordinate officers of at least the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police performing roles as executive magistrates. This structured hierarchy ensures proper law enforcement and management within the metropolitan region.
Judiciary
Gauhati High Court
Guwahati is home to the Gauhati High Court, established on April 5, 1948. Initially located in Shillong, the High Court moved to Guwahati on August 14, 1948. The court serves as the principal judicial body for the states of Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, with benches located in Kohima, Aizawl, and Itanagar respectively.
District Judiciary
The Court of the District and Sessions Judge, Kamrup, has been operational in Guwahati since 1920. It handles legal matters within the greater Guwahati area, functioning as a critical arm of the district judiciary.
Urban Challenges
Population Growth
Guwahati has witnessed rapid population growth, driven by migration for educational and employment opportunities. Between 2020 and 2035, the city’s population is projected to grow from 1.1 million to 1.5 million. This surge has led to:
- Unplanned urban expansion
- Increase in slum areas
- Pressure on existing resources and infrastructure
Inflation
Economic challenges like rising food prices have significantly impacted residents. Essentials such as vegetables, poultry, and fish often face steep price hikes due to:
- Taxes at multiple check posts during transportation
- Increased transportation costs
- Profit-driven markups by wholesale and retail sellers
Some commonly affected food items include:
- Vegetables transported from West Bengal, Bihar, and Maharashtra
- Poultry primarily supplied from regions like Chaygaon and Barpeta
- Local fish varieties like Rohu (Rou), Catla (Bahu), and Walking Catfish (Magur)
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated inflation, causing widespread price instability.
Flooding
Urban flooding is a persistent issue in Guwahati, worsened by:
- Rapid urbanization altering natural drainage systems
- Encroachment on wetlands
- Reduced open areas due to concretization
Experts, like Professor Abani Kumar Bhagawati of Gauhati University, attribute these floods to disruptions in the natural flow of rainwater to the Brahmaputra River. Once absorbed by wetlands and channeled naturally, water now stagnates, causing severe flooding even after minimal rainfall.
Pollution
In 2023, Guwahati ranked as the second most polluted city globally, as per a report by IQAir, trailing Begusarai but surpassing Delhi. Contributing factors include:
- Rapid urbanization
- Industrial emissions
- Vehicle exhaust
This level of pollution highlights critical environmental concerns for the city.
Demographics of Guwahati
Population Growth
Guwahati’s population has grown rapidly over the decades, making it one of India’s fastest-growing cities. The population trends highlight this significant increase:
| Year | Population | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1951 | 45,000 | — |
| 1961 | 138,000 | +206.7% |
| 1971 | 203,000 | +47.1% |
| 1981 | 348,000 | +71.4% |
| 1991 | 591,000 | +69.8% |
| 2001 | 818,809 | +38.5% |
| 2011 | 962,334 | +17.5% |
| 2021 | 1,135,000 | +17.9% |
The metropolitan region is projected to house 2.8 million residents by 2025, signifying continued urban expansion.
Religious Composition
As per the 2011 census, Guwahati exhibits a religious diversity dominated by Hinduism.
- Hinduism: 84.74%
- Islam: 12.45%
- Jainism: 0.96%
- Christianity: 0.93%
- Others or Not Stated: 0.92%
Literacy and Sex Ratio
The city has a high literacy rate of 91.47%, with male literacy at 94.24% and female literacy at 88.50%. The sex ratio is recorded at 933 females per 1000 males, and the child sex ratio stands at 940 girls per 1000 boys.
Languages
Guwahati is a melting pot of cultures, with Assamese being the most widely spoken language:
- Assamese: 57.80%
- Bengali: 20.40%
- Hindi: 12.29%
- Nepali: 1.92%
- Boro: 1.69%
- Manipuri: 0.91%
- Bhojpuri: 0.90%
- Others: 4.09%
Education in Guwahati
Hub of Educational Institutions
Guwahati stands as the educational nucleus of Northeast India, offering a blend of historic and modern educational institutions.
- Premier Institutes:
- Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT): A globally recognized technical institute.
- Cotton University: Formerly Cotton College, over a century old in its legacy of excellence in Science and Arts.
- Universities and Colleges:
- Gauhati University
- Assam Science and Technology University
- Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences
- National Law University and Judicial Academy
- Professional Institutions:
- Gauhati Medical College and Hospital
- Assam Engineering College
- Royal Global University
- Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Guwahati Campus
- Prominent Private Schools:
- Don Bosco School
- Delhi Public School
- Sanskriti The Gurukul
- Holy Child School
These institutions position Guwahati as a center of higher learning and academic excellence.
Economy of Guwahati
Guwahati plays a pivotal role in the economy of Northeast India, with a diverse range of economic activities that contribute significantly to its growth and development.
Key Sectors
- Manufacturing Industry:
The manufacturing sector holds a substantial share in the city’s economy. Prominent within this sector is the Petroleum manufacturing industry:- The Guwahati Refinery, located in Noonmati, is a key part of the city’s industrial landscape. Established in 1962 by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited, it was India’s first public-sector refinery. The refinery initially had a crude processing capacity of 0.75 million tonnes per year, which has since increased to 1.0 million tonnes annually. Products include LPG, Kerosene, Motor Spirits, and other petroleum products, all of which are crucial to the Northeast states and beyond.
- An LPG bottling plant in Guwahati further strengthens the city’s industrial base.
- Tea Industry:
Tea manufacturing is another cornerstone of Guwahati’s economy, as Assam is one of the world’s leading tea producers.- Assam contributes to 80% of India’s tea exports and 55% of the national production.
- The Assam Branch Indian Tea Association (ABITA) has its headquarters in Guwahati, indicating the city’s central role in the tea industry.
- Guwahati Tea Auction Centre (GTAC), located near the capital complex in Dispur, holds the distinction of being the world’s largest CTC tea auction center and the second-largest overall. Tea auctions are a significant part of the region’s economy, with record-breaking prices such as ₹70,501 per kilogram of Maijan Orthodox Golden Tea in August 2019.
- Transportation and Trade:
- Pandu, situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra, has a long history as an important river harbor, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers. This region houses the Dhubri-Sadiya National Waterway-2, which enhances the city’s trade capacity.
- The Pandu Port, equipped with a high-level and low-level jetty, handles container vessels and aids in furthering the city’s economic growth through efficient trade and cargo movement.
Infrastructure Development
The city has also focused on infrastructure development to manage its rapid urban growth and offer better living standards for its residents. The multi-level car parking facility at Paltanbazar operated by Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) is an example of such efforts, providing much-needed space for both vehicles and ease of commuting.
Financial Sector
The presence of centralized, private, and international banks has bolstered the financial landscape in Guwahati. One of the crucial players in the region is the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which operates out of Pan Bazaar in Guwahati, strengthening the financial infrastructure in the city.
Transport in Guwahati
Guwahati is well-connected to the rest of India and beyond, with air, rail, road, and water transportation playing crucial roles in the movement of people and goods within the city and the northeastern region of India.
Air Transportation
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI Airport), located in Borjhar, around 20 kilometers west of the city, serves as the primary air transport gateway to Guwahati. The airport is well-equipped to handle both domestic and international flights and is ranked as the tenth busiest airport in India by passenger traffic. It connects Guwahati with major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, as well as international destinations like Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Paro. A new terminal is under construction, which is expected to be completed by 2025, enhancing its capacity to accommodate increasing traffic.
Rail Transportation
Guwahati’s transportation network is strongly supported by the railways, with the Guwahati Railway Station located at Paltan Bazaar being the busiest station in the city. It lies along the Barauni-Guwahati Line and the Guwahati–Lumding Section under the jurisdiction of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).
- The station is categorized as an A-1 station and offers connections to major cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.
- Several important trains such as the Rajdhani Express, Vande Bharat, and Brahmaputra Mail run to and from Guwahati.
- Guwahati is also a junction for the Vivek Express, which holds the record for the longest journey in India, traveling from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kanyakumari.
Additionally, the Kamakhya Junction, New Guwahati, Narangi, and Azara Railway Stations cater to both passenger and freight services, making the city well-connected through rail.
Road Transportation
Roads play a crucial role in daily commutes and transportation within Guwahati. The city’s road infrastructure includes key highways that connect Guwahati to various parts of India and Northeast India:
- National Highway 27 connects Guwahati with West Bengal, Bihar, and other parts of India.
- National Highway 17 terminates at Jalukbari, linking the city with Dhubri and Cooch Behar.
- National Highway 15 runs through both banks of the Brahmaputra River, connecting the city to Tezpur, Jorhat, and states like Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.
Public transportation within the city includes state-run and private buses operated by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC). The Rupnath Brahma Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Betkuchi serves as the primary hub for buses operating within Assam and Northeast India. Furthermore, the Nilachal Flyover and Jalukbari Road are some major transportation corridors that help manage the heavy traffic within the city.
The development of a metro rail system has been planned to reduce congestion and ease commuting in the future. Additionally, cycling is growing in popularity as a sustainable mode of transport, with the Bicycle Mayor leading the initiative.
Water Transportation
Pandu Port, situated along the Brahmaputra River, is an essential hub for inland water transport. It handles the movement of both passenger and cargo vessels. The Inland Water Transport Department is based here, overseeing the ferry services that transport people from various ports to Pandu. This network contributes to the accessibility of Guwahati, particularly for those traveling by water.
Sports in Guwahati
Guwahati is home to multiple sporting venues and professional teams that cater to a variety of sports, from football and cricket to badminton and hockey.
Prominent Sports Venues
- Nehru Stadium – This multi-purpose stadium is one of the oldest in Guwahati, primarily hosting football and cricket events. It also features the Kanaklata Indoor Stadium, a swimming pool, and tennis courts.
- Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium – Located at Sarusajai, this is a state-of-the-art venue used for both national and international events. It was built for the 33rd National Games in 2007 and has hosted significant events like the 2016 South Asian Games and the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
- Assam Cricket Association Stadium at Barsapara is the largest cricket stadium in the Northeast, with a seating capacity of 40,000. It has hosted T20I matches, including the India vs. Australia game in 2017.
Professional Sports Clubs
- NorthEast United FC, a prominent football club in the Indian Super League (ISL), is based in Guwahati. They play at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, known for its passionate fan base.
- The Assam Titans Futsal Club plays in the North East Futsal League.
Guwahati is committed to enhancing its sporting infrastructure, evidenced by the development of numerous new stadiums and complexes. These investments are set to foster sports development in the region while giving rise to opportunities for sports tourism.
Media & Telecommunications
Guwahati, as a major urban center in Assam, has a diverse and thriving media landscape. The city is home to numerous Assamese and English daily newspapers. Prominent Assamese dailies include Dainik Agradoot, Asomiya Pratidin, Asomiya Khabar, Amar Asom, Dainik Janambhumi, Janasadharan, Niyomiya Barta, Dainik Asam, Dainandin Barta, and Gana Adhikar. For English speakers, notable papers like The Assam Tribune, The Sentinel, The Telegraph, The Times of India, and Eastern Chronicle are published from Guwahati. Eclectic Northeast, a magazine focusing on the region, also originates from here. Additionally, G Plus is a popular English-language weekly tabloid published locally.
Television services in the region are robust. The state-owned DD Assam provides free-to-air satellite television, while several 24-hour regional news channels are based in the city. These include News Live, DY 365, Pratidin Time, Prag News, Assam Talks, and News18 Assam North East. The Guwahati Radio Station, part of All India Radio, offers regional AM and FM stations, including 92.7 BIG FM, Radio Gup-Shup 94.3 FM, Red FM 93.5, and Radio Mirchi.
Telecommunications services are well-represented with providers such as BSNL, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Jio.
Notable Places of Worship
Guwahati is home to several historically and culturally significant temples. The Kamakhya Temple, located on Nilachal Hill, is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas and attracts numerous devotees throughout the year. Other prominent temples include:
- Umananda Temple: Situated on a small river island, it was constructed by King Gadadhar Singha in 1694 and holds great significance.
- Basistha Temple: Built by Ahom King Rajeswar Singha in 1764, this temple holds a special place among the locals.
- Doul Govinda Temple: Known for its annual festival that attracts pilgrims from across the region.
- Rudreswar Temple, Sukreswar Temple, Lankeshwar Temple, Dirgheshwari Temple: Other notable temples that contribute to the spiritual fabric of the city.
- Ugratara Devalaya: A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Ugratara.
Notable People from Guwahati
The city has produced several notable personalities across different fields. Here are a few famous people associated with Guwahati:
- Nabakanta Barua: A renowned poet and academician.
- Dipankar Bhattacharjee: An Olympian badminton player.
- Zubeen Garg: A famous singer, songwriter, and actor known for his contributions to Assamese music and films.
- Arnab Goswami: A prominent journalist and television news anchor.
- Bhupen Hazarika: A legendary singer, composer, and filmmaker known for his cultural contributions.
- Himanta Biswa Sarma: The current Chief Minister of Assam.
- Jayanta Talukdar: An Olympian archer from Assam.
- Shiva Thapa: A boxer and Olympian who has made India proud in international boxing competitions.
These personalities have significantly impacted both the regional and national cultural, sporting, and political spheres.
